Emmen Runs Personal Best 800 in Belgium

Jul 30, 2007

July 30, 2007

Recently graduated UC Santa Barbara track and field star Tetlo Emmen turned in a personal record 1:46.67 performance at the KBC Nacht van de Atletiek meet in Heusden, Belgium, Saturday afternoon as he competed in the 800 meters.

Emmen's Europe tour of races began 20 days ago in Belgium with the support of his parents Mogomotsi and Roger Emmen. While most track athletes running in Europe are sponsored by shoe companies an early season injury held Emmen back during June when most athletes are signing deals. Emmen's parents gave him a graduation gift in June when they agreed to sponsoring his running in July.

Emmen last completed for the Gauchos in June at the USA Championships in Indianapolis, Ind., placed fourth in Belgium in the B section of the men's 800m as he clocked in at 1:46.67, lowering his personal best from 1:46.89 in 2006. The time is the 10th fastest time in the United States this year and virtually guarantees him an appearance in the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials. During the trip Emmen has not only recorded this most recent personal best, but was the Savo Games 800 meter champion in Lapinlahti, Finland. Emmen, the Big West champion in the event, was a 2005 All-American for the Gauchos and a 2007 Academic All-American.